One of the largest stupas in the world, Boudhanath is the spiritual center for Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. The massive mandala is topped by a gleaming white dome and a golden spire from which the all-seeing eyes of Buddha gaze out in four directions. Join the devout pilgrims and locals as they perform 'kora' (circumambulation) around the stupa, spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras. The surrounding area is filled with monasteries, workshops, and rooftop cafes offering stunning views.

As Nepal's most sacred Hindu temple, Pashupatinath is a sprawling complex of temples, ashrams, and inscriptions dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated on the banks of the holy Bagmati River, it is a site for pilgrims from all over the world. While non-Hindus are not permitted inside the main temple, the exterior and surrounding grounds offer a powerful insight into Hindu traditions, including open-air cremation ceremonies on the river ghats. It's a profound, albeit intense, place of life, death, and devotion.

Perched atop a hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley, Swayambhunath, affectionately known as the Monkey Temple, is a must-visit for its panoramic city views and resident holy monkeys. After a steep climb up 365 steps, you're rewarded with a magnificent white stupa, various shrines, and a vibrant atmosphere. This ancient religious complex is sacred to both Buddhists and Hindus, perfectly embodying the religious harmony of Nepal.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Kathmandu Durbar Square is the city's historic heart. This plaza showcases the palaces of the Malla and Shah kings who once ruled the city. Despite significant damage from the 2015 earthquake, the square is still a stunning cluster of temples, courtyards, and statues, including the Kumari Ghar, the home of the living goddess. It's a living museum of intricate Newari architecture and craftsmanship.

Located in the city of Lalitpur, a short drive from Kathmandu, Patan Durbar Square is another UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its exceptional Newari architecture. The square is a concentrated mass of ancient palaces, pagoda temples, and stone statues. Highlights include the Krishna Mandir, a stunning stone temple, and the Patan Museum, which is housed in a former Malla palace and contains one of the finest collections of religious art in Asia.

Considered the best-preserved of the Kathmandu Valley's three ancient city-states, Bhaktapur offers a glimpse into medieval Nepal. This UNESCO site is a sprawling complex of palaces, temples, and courtyards, famous for its 55-Window Palace, the Golden Gate, and the towering Nyatapola Temple. The city is also a hub for traditional crafts; don't miss Pottery Square, where artisans create and sell their wares.

Thamel is the vibrant, pulsating tourist epicenter of Kathmandu. Its narrow, winding streets are packed with everything a traveler could need: trekking gear shops, souvenir stalls, bookstores, guesthouses, and a diverse range of restaurants and bars. While it can be chaotic, its energy is infectious. It's the perfect place to organize a trek, meet fellow travelers, and soak up the modern, cosmopolitan side of the city.

An oasis of peace amidst the hustle of Kathmandu, the Garden of Dreams is a beautifully restored neo-classical garden just a short walk from Thamel. Created in the 1920s, it features pavilions, fountains, manicured lawns, and a diverse collection of exotic plants. It's the perfect spot to escape the city's chaos for a few hours, relax with a book, or enjoy a quiet meal at the on-site cafe.

Perched on a hill overlooking the Boudhanath stupa, Kopan Monastery is a renowned center for Tibetan Mahayana Buddhism. It offers a peaceful retreat from the city and is famous for its introductory courses in meditation and Buddhist philosophy, which attract visitors from around the world. The monastery's vibrant prayer halls and serene gardens offer a tranquil atmosphere for contemplation and learning, with stunning views of the valley below.

While technically just outside the city, a trip to Nagarkot is a classic Kathmandu experience. Located about 32 km east of Kathmandu, this hilltop village is famous for its breathtaking panoramic sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas. On a clear day, you can see a vast stretch of the range, including eight of the world's ten highest peaks, with a chance of spotting Mount Everest. Many visitors stay overnight to catch the magical dawn spectacle.